But that doesn't mean the director's final installment of his space opera, which opened Thursday, isn't rife with hidden references.

If anything, Lucas has crammed the story with so many sly asides that catching them all in a single sitting is unlikely.

"The movie is meant to be seen more than once," says Sith producer Rick McCallum. "He has always tried to make movies layered with messages."

Here, then, is a viewer's guide to the subtle and not-so-subtle references in Sith:

•Holy filmmaking, George. Religion has always played a part in the space opera, and never more so than in Sith. In addition to Yoda's Taoist preaching, Lucas plays with life beyond the grave, the virgin birth and a climactic scene full of fire and brimstone. And listen for the order that the Emperor gives to destroy all Jedi.

•Sweet ride. He doesn't get a meaty role, but Senator Bail Organa (Jimmy Smits) at least gets to cruise in style. Check out the front of his flying vehicle, modeled after one of Lucas' favorite cars. Hint: He was executive producer in a 1988 movie about it starring Jeff Bridges.

•Who's your daddy? Lucas has always hinted at Anakin's virgin birth, but a speech at the opera house offers possibilities as to who helped create him.

•By George. Lucas finally makes a cameo in Sith, as he and daughter Katie enjoy the opera.

•What's new is old again. Aside from the Death Star, a certain Rebel Blockade Runner that housed a princess — replete with its stark white décor — returns for Sith.

•What's in a prototype? The TIE Fighters and X-Wings that populate the original trilogy begin to take shape in Sith. Look for early versions of the stormtrooper outfits as well.

•Beautiful sunset(s). In a nod to the original film, an iconic image from Luke's days on Tatooine gets new life in Sith.

•Jango, say hello to Jango. He was cut down by Mace Windu's blade in Attack of the Clones, but bounty hunter Boba Fett's dad returns for Sith. Many times.

•You, robot. There's a reason General Grievous, who looks like a droid, has a hacking cough. Lucas likes his creature/machine hybrids, particularly those with breathing problems.

• Like mother, like daughter. Princess Leia never lived down her double-bun hairdo. But watch for her mom, Padmé, experimenting with some of her own funky styles.